JARS 43n2 - In Memoriam: Henry Dumper

In Memoriam: Henry Dumper
Dorothy Schlaikjer
Halesite, New York

It is with great sadness that we report the passing of our friend and colleague, December 25, 1988. Henry Dumper, an architect by profession, had abundant talent to bring to his home garden design and enthusiasm for species and hybrid rhododendrons which he featured.

A member of the American Rhododendron Society since 1958, Henry contributed much to the New York Chapter, serving on numerous committees, hosting garden tours, participating in panel discussions, and judging flower shows. He co-authored our rhododendron booklet and was editor of the azalea booklet for the Azalea Study Group. Henry was our fifth president serving from June 1965 through June 1968. The New York Chapter awarded him the Bronze Medal in 1973. He generously shared plants and cuttings with members and collected Dexter hybrids from some of us for shipment to the Rhododendron Park in Bremen.

His experience and assistance was valued by other garden groups to whom he lectured and especially by the Friends of Planting Fields for whom he served as editor of their Newsletter for several years. In his hometown of Roslyn, Long Island. Mr. Dumper served as town building inspector; in the Park Department, and on the Board of Directors of Clark Gardens.

Henry was most encouraging to new members starting rhododendron gardens and the inspiration to one new member who has since built up the finest and largest nursery specializing in rhododendrons and azaleas on Long Island. Our hearts go out to Julie, his wife and gardening companion of many years.